Hundreds caught without TV licences

Almost 800 people in North Kirklees were caught watching their televisions without a TV licence last year. TV Licensing revealed this week that more than 300 people were prosecuted in Batley, 390 in Dewsbury and around 100 in Cleckheaton. However the average licence evasion rate remains at a low of just over over per centre, meaning that almost 95 per cent of homes are correctly licensed. TV Licensing spokeswoman Lucy Baird said: “The data released shows avasion remains at historically low levels, with the overwhelming majority of people ensuyring they are correctly licensed, In order to be fair to the law-abiding majority who do pay their licence, we’ll continue to pursue the small minority of people who do not pay.

“We do understand some people may find it difficult to pay in one go, which is why we offer numerous ways to spread the cost. Payment options include a weekly cash payment plan, a savings card or a monthly Direct Debit scheme, which can be set up very quickly online or over the phone. We also work with a range of money advice organisations – their staff can provide useful information and payment advice to help people budget for a TV Licence. If people decide to watch TV without being properly licensed, they risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.” Head of Creditor Relations at Leeds-based national charity, StepChange Debt Charity, Richard Haymes said: “TV Licensing makes it easier for us to help clients keep within the law. “We welcome the many ways to pay – this will help people on lower incomes plan and meet their TV Licensing requirements and we would ask anyone experiencing difficulty with payments to contact TV Licensing so they can provide additional advice.”